Family of 14 fails to assist with needs of mother

Though she has a large family, none of Mrs. D.'s 14 children help take care of her.

She lives alone on a fixed income through Social Security and Medicaid. She often has little money left over for some household essentials.

Programs like Christmas for the Elderly helps provide holiday gifts to needy senior citizens in the community.

The Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center, Missouri Division of Senior Services and Hoover Eldercare Center refer clients to the program, which relies on donations. The Southeast Missourian and Cape Girardeau Jaycees help support the program.

Mrs. D. is diabetic and uses a walker to get around.

She needs some sheets and a bedspread for a full-size bed. She prefers blue. Night gowns in size 1X, underwear and socks, both in size 12 would be good gifts also. She also asked for ponytail holders for her hair.

Gifts like paper goods and toiletry items, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoos, soap and pet foods are needed to distribute to Christmas for the Elderly recipients. Fruit baskets, stamps or gift certificates at discount and grocery stores also would be helpful.

Dish towels, washcloths, towels and cleaning supplies are at the top of many seniors' lists this year. Other necessities are sweat suits in a variety of sizes and colors. Slippers and bath robes make good gifts.

The Southeast Missourian will collect gifts for Christmas for the Elderly at its Cape Girardeau and Jackson offices.

Tax-deductible donations may be mailed to Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004.